One of the key concerns for pet owners when they are thinking about installing an artificial grass lawn is whether it will get too hot for their beloved pet. This is quite understandable as during the hot summer months the temperature artificial grass reaches can often be uncomfortable. In this blog post we are going to take a more in depth look into what sort of risks dogs face when artificial grass gets too hot and ways you can keep them cool.
The Main Considerations
Because two of the main components of artificial grass are plastic and rubber it has a tendency to retain heat more easily than natural turf. Better quality synthetic grass has the ability to keep the heat absorption down to a more acceptable level. However, the properties of the materials concerned mean that the temperature of the surface will normally be higher.
Improved technology has led to more heat resistant technology being incorporated into modern artificial grass. Things like a moisture management system or a specialist infill can prevent heat building up which will make artificial grass a more comfortable space for dogs during periods of hot weather.
Because of the concerns around the temperatures of artificial grass in hot weather it is useful to be able to recognise the signs of heat distress in dogs. If your dog starts panting excessively, becomes lethargic or is continually trying to find shade then there is every chance the surface is too hot. When this happens it can be detrimental to the health of your pet so you need to remain vigilant.
Let’s Compare Temperatures Artificial Grass vs A Natural Lawn
Because of it’s make up it is unsurprising that artificial turf get quite a lot hotter than natural grass. When in direct sunlight artificial grass can reach temperatures of up to nearly 70 degree Celsius which is significantly hotter than those of natural turf.
One of the reasons for this is that synthetic grass does have the same natural cooling mechanisms such as plant growth and water transpiration that natural turf does. For this reason artificial grass will reach much higher temperatures in hot weather meaning caution is needed when your dog is out in the garden.
What Sort of Steps can you Take to keep your Artificial Grass Cool
If you want to keep your synthetic turf safe for your dogs top play comfortably on there are a couple of things you can do. First try and introduce some shade to your garden using maybe umbrellas or gazebos, secondly make sure you spray your lawn on a regular basis with cool water. Doing these simple things will help ensure your lawn remains a safe space for your dog to play on.
How hot is too Hot for Dogs
As a dog owner, you should be able to recognise when temperatures become unbearable for your furry friend. When temperatures hit 26 degrees celsius or higher, your dog’s paw pads can get hurt. If the surface temperature goes over 48 degrees C, it can actually burn their paws.
Here’s an easy tip, if place your hand on the pavement for ten seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s definitely too hot for your dog’s paws.
What are the Signs of Heat Distress in Dogs
Behavioural changes in dogs playing on hot surfaces can tell you they are in distress. This is why it is important to keep an eye on your dog on hot summer days. Some of the tell-tale signs of heat distress in dogs include them constantly seeking shade, lack of movement, restlessness and excessive panting or salivation. Where cases are more severe your pet may exhibit signs of heatstroke such as confusion, drooling and dizziness. If you see any of these symptoms you should take your dog to the vet.
Practical Tips on How to Keep Your Dog Cool on Artificial Grass
Here are some things you can do to ensure your pet remains cool when playing on artificial grass. These tips will help keep down the temperature of the turf but also ensure the environment is nice and comfortable for your dog. Make sure there is always shade and water available and do not over expose your pet to the heat during peak hours of sunshine. Also make use of cooling devices to prevent your dog suffering heat stress and burning their paws.
Create a shaded Area
One of the best ways to reduce the temperature of an artificial turf surface is to create a shaded area. If you can block out direct or reflected sunlight you can stop the surface overheating. Some of the things you can do to provide shade include installing umbrellas, canopies or even a permanent structure. This will provide you with the shade you need to keep surface temperatures down.
Invest in High Quality Artificial Turf
Investing in high quality pet-friendly artificial grass is another way you can reduce the temperature of your artificial grass. This type of grass uses advanced technology to give you better heat absorption which will make the surface much safer for your dog.
Some of the features found in high quality artificial turf include:
- Lighter colour shades
- Lower pile height
- Wide-shaped blades
- Increased space between blades for improved airflow
Regular Cleaning will Help Prevent the build Up of Heat
Regularly cleaning your artificial grass is an effective way to prevent heat build-up. Removing debris frequently is crucial since it can retain extra heat.
Additionally, ensuring proper drainage prevents water accumulation, which can increase surface heat on artificial turf. With consistent cleaning and good drainage, you can create a cooler, more comfortable outdoor space for your pet.
Conclusion
While artificial grass can become hot on sunny days if you take the right precautions it can be a safe and enjoyable space for pets. If you are a dog owner and looking to install artificial grass in your outdoor space but are unsure of the best option, why not contact the team here at Artificial Grass who will be only too happy to provide you with advice and recommendations
